Son of a gun: Kalashnikov manufacturer tests new bullpup sniper rifle

The Izhmash gun plant has presented its new sniper rifle VS-121 designed in a bullpup configuration. Based on the classic Dragunov model and upgraded with modern design features, it is to become a ‘principally new’ Russian-made sniper rifle.

The new rifle is fitted with an up-to-date trigger and firing
mechanism, and is compatible with 7.62×54mm and 7.62×51mm shells,
as well as with “advanced new ammunition currently developed by
the Izhmash design-engineering center specialists,” the
statement issued by the Izhevsk Machinebuilding Plant (Izhmash)
said on Monday.

The VS-121 rifle comes with improved action, and is equipped
with suppressor and Picatinny rail for mounting various
optoelectronic devices. According to Izhmash’s Chief Designer
Vladimir Zlobin, the new rifle is “compact and light,” its
weight being 4.5kg. It is currently undergoing comprehensive
factory tests.

The bullpup design is the new rifle’s prominent feature. Placing
the gun’s action and magazine behind the trigger permits a shorter
firearm length without the need of shortening the barrel and
improves weapon’s maneuverability. It is particularly popular with
special task forces, which are major clients of Izhmash in
Russia.

Although bullpup modifications are not something new for Russian
firearms, and include already employed Dragunov sniper rifle model
SVU, it is the first time the world-famous AK-47 assault rifle
manufacturer has stepped aside from conventional firearm design.
The latest incarnation of the iconic Kalashnikov rifle – AK-12 – has been designed in a classic AK-47 layout,
and is about to undergo official state tests in June.

Founded in 1807, Izhmash is Russia’s leading maker of assault
and sniper rifles, cannon-launched guided projectiles, as well as
sporting guns and machine-tools. The plant exports its produce to
27 world countries, including the USA, the UK, and Germany.